Award chooses the 8 best cities to visit in South America, with Brazil on the list!

A good way to choose a travel destination is to know which city is currently trending. So, if you're looking to travel this year, check out the 8 best urban destinations to visit in South America according to the World Travel Awards, which have just announced the winners.

The list includes destinations in Brazil and seven other South American countries. Maybe this ranking will help you choose your trip for 2024?

The 8 best cities to visit in South America

The World Travel Awards are a kind of Oscar for global tourism. Created in 1993, they recognize excellence in important sectors in the world of tourism.

In total, eight cities competed for the award for South America's top urban destination in 2024 and the big winner was Santiago, Chile.

Check out the list of the eight best cities in South America below. Since the award only recognizes the winner, we have listed the other seven cities in alphabetical order.

Santiago, Chile

Traveling to Santiago is a little more expensive than it used to be, but that doesn't take away from the charms of the Chilean capital, which is always worth a visit. There are several attractions in the city, such as the Moneda PalaceThe Metropolitan Cathedral of SantiagoO Santa Lucia Hill and the Santiago Metropolitan Park. Another popular spot is the Sky Costanerathe tallest building in Latin America, with a wonderful view of the Andes Mountains.

If you go to Santiago now in the middle of the year, it is worth taking advantage of the winter season to stop by Valle Nevadoone of the main snow destinations in South America and located about 40 km from the Chilean capital.

See too:

– Hotels in Santiago

– Flights to Santiago

Asuncion, Paraguay

Let's face it: of all the neighboring countries, Paraguay is not always remembered by Brazilians when it comes to traveling. But know that the capital Asunción has a rich history, beautiful landscapes and first-class cuisine – and we can't forget the shopping, of course.

Visitors to Asunción should visit the Historic Center, to visit Plaza Uruguaya, the Centro Cultural de la República, the Casa de la Independencia Museum and to see the Palacio de los Lopez, the seat of the Paraguayan government. The Shopping del Sol and Paseo La Galería are two good places to shop.

Bogota, Colombia

A Colombia is a vibrant tourist destination full of attractions, and Bogotá is known for its rich history, culture and colonial architecture. The Plaza de Chorro de Quevedo is a public place with bars, restaurants, many colonial-style buildings and welcomes people from all over the world. Also, be sure to visit the Cerro Monserrate, La Candelaria, Plaza de Bolívar and several museums in the Colombian capital, such as the Museo del Oro and the Fernando Botero Museum.

Good news for Brazilians is that there are several direct flights from the country to Bogotá, with Gol, Latam and Avianca.

Download the Melhores Destinos app and receive all the promotions on airline tickets and hotels.

See too:

– Colombia is here! See how the inaugural flight of Gol’s new route to Bogotá went

Buenos Aires, Argentina

One of the most visited destinations in South America by Brazilians is also on the list. Although the real does not have the same purchasing power as in recent years, Buenos Aires is still a city worth visiting financially, especially when compared to other destinations such as Santiago or Montevideo.

But it’s not just because it’s still a “cheap” city that the Argentine capital deserves to be highlighted. The city is full of attractions, tourist spots, parks and tours. If you’re in the city and have the opportunity, don’t miss out on going to a tango show in Buenos Aires.

See too:

– Flights to Buenos Aires
– Hotels in Buenos Aires

La Paz, Bolivia

Bolivia is a perfect destination for those who enjoy natural beauty and want to spend less. La Paz is a large city located at an altitude of over 3,500 meters, with historical attractions, surrounded by the Andes mountains and a lively nightlife. Don't forget to explore the city from above, that is, by riding the famous cable car that offers a beautiful view of the entire capital.

Check out and book some tours to do in La Paz with Civitatis.

Lima, Peru

lime is a mix of flavors and cultures that delight tourists. In addition to being a connection point for Cusco It is Machu Picchuthe Peruvian capital also deserves your attention. The harmony between old and new is seen throughout almost the entire city. It is worth visiting the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral of Lima, as well as the Miraflores neighborhood. You will also be surprised by the Peruvian cuisine, without a doubt one of the highlights of Lima.

See too:

Where to stay in Lima

Quito, Ecuador

Nestled in the Andes Mountains and surrounded by volcanoes, Quito has one of the best-preserved historic centers in South America, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The capital of Ecuador has beautiful landscapes, culture and history, all at an altitude of 2,850 meters. In addition to the center, it is also worth planning a trip to the top of Cruz Loma hill, from where you can admire some of the main volcanoes that surround the capital. And we cannot forget to mention that Quito also has amazing cuisine!

If you want to take a tour in Quito, Check out the main excursions offered by Civitatis here.

Rio de janeiro Brazil

We have reached the Brazilian city that made it to the final list of the World Travel Awards, the Marvelous City. With its charms and natural beauty, there are plenty of good reasons for Rio de Janeiro to be in the top 8 of the best urban destinations in South America.

Rio is one of the most visited Brazilian cities by foreign tourists (and Brazilians), who are enchanted by its beaches and attractions, such as Christ the Redeemer or the Sugar Loaffor example. Recently, in fact, a street in Rio de Janeiro was voted one of the coolest in the world.

Want to travel to the Marvelous City? Check out flights to Rio de Janeiro and hotels in Rio de Janeiro.

Read too:
Snowy places in South America – 15 destinations to enjoy incredible landscapes and ski


Now that you know the eight best cities to visit in South America according to the World Travel Awards, which one would you choose to travel to? Leave your comment!